By Ric Allan

Relevant links:

Preface

The goal of this series to get to know those in the breed, both long established as well as those AfFlicted starting out on the road of AfDiction.

Starting Point

The questions we'd like to explore...

Conversation with… YOU?

The following questions are meant to instigate what might be a comprehensive one-on-one discussion between you and another (who is almost as crazy as me about afghan hounds) might want to get your opinions and experiences on.

AfZine: Do you remember the first time you saw an Afghan Hound? How long after that until you had one? Was this your first breed? How long have you had the AfFliction?

It is obvious that this may not be a straightforward question as we often make many starts into an endeavor or area (as well as more than one person may be involved)… but

You: Start answer here…

AfZine: What were the qualities you first admired in the breed? Are those the same qualities you treasure today? Are there any you’ve come to regret?

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AfZine: Tell us about your first Afghan(s)? Background, personality, pedigree? If you breed, are they behind your current program?

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AfZine: What is your current (and has been your past) involvement. If you do, when and how did you start showing? Did you, and do you, enjoy it? What has been the most notable change in showing over the years?

Involvement can be thought of as ranging from admirer, owner, exhibitor, handler, breeder, art/creative participant in the community, ?etc.

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AfZine: Do you use a kennel name, have you always had the same kennel name? Where does your kennel name come from?

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AfZine: If you do or did, when did you breed your first litter? Was there a grand scheme or specific goal behind that breeding? Have your goals changed over the years? If so, how?

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AfZine: Who were people that mentored you through the years? What kind of impact did they have on you? Do you consider anyone to still be your mentor?

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AfZine: Do you have a favorite (or favorites) over the years

Please feel free to attach pictures for publication with the article.

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AfZine: Do you have a particular favorite from your kennel (current and all time)? Name (Registered and Call)? Tell us about them?

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AfZine: Do you have any special friends in the Af world? Have they (and if so how have they) played a part in your AfFliction?

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AfZine: What characteristics do you place the greatest value on (structure, temperament, ???)? Why? If you breed, how do they drive your breeding decisions?

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AfZine: What do you think are the most important factors in breeding? Are there any techniques or tools that can help someone thinking about starting a program?.

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AfZine: Do you perceive any predominant faults in today’s Afghan Hounds? If so, is there anything behind those faults (like following the flavor of the day)? ..and a way out?

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AfZine: Do you feel that today’s Afghan Hound has any worrisome health problems? If so, what? If not, are there any areas that still deserve some attention before they become a problem?

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AfZine: What part do you think health tests should play in breeding? How do you use them? Is it specific to your breeding program or a general part of every Afs care?

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AfZine: What message or advice would you pass on to people just coming to the breed now? Thoes showing? Those contemplating a breeding program?

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AfZine: Do you have any general concerns about the fancy? (As in things that may drive down the numbers owning, caring for, and insuring that the breed is preserved.) If so, what should (and/or can) be done about it?

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You: Start answer here…

Contributing to Discussions

You could copy the above into a Word document or you can request we send you one. Fill it out the best yuo can (or want). It is not necessary that you answer each question AND you may phrase your own questions to answer if you feel thaey would be pertinent and give someone a better insight as to what you are about.

Use the link below to open an email, attach your word document (and any pictures you'd like to have included with the article). Enter "Conversation with" as the subject line and SEND IT.